japanese antique Bronze cat incense burner The “byōbu” (folding screen) is a traditional Japanese architectural element that also creates a magnificent pictorial space. As antiques, folding screens not only serve practical purposes—such as dividing spaces and blocking drafts—but also convey history, culture, and high artistic value through the paintings depicted on them. In this article, we will provide an easy-to-understand explanation of the world of folding screens—from their history to their sizes and types (uses)—for those new to antiques, covering topics you may think you know but actually don’t.
What Are Folding Screens? Their Appeal as Antiques
A folding screen consists of several panels (referred to as “sen” or “kyoku”) connected by hinges so that they can be folded. While its primary functions are to divide rooms and block drafts, its surface is often adorned with beautiful paintings or calligraphy, making it an important piece of furniture for decorating a space.
The appeal of folding screens as antiques lies in their unique blend of practicality and artistic merit. They come in a wide variety, ranging from the lavish, ornate screens commissioned by powerful figures and the wealthy from top-tier painters to the simple, unadorned screens likely used in everyday life. The ability to sense the atmosphere of the era in which a screen was created, as well as the lifestyles and aesthetic sensibilities of the people of that time, is a pleasure unique to antiques.
The History of Folding Screens: How Their Form Has Evolved Over Time
Folding screens have a long history, with their origins dating back to ancient China. They are believed to have been introduced to Japan around the Nara period.
- Ancient to the Heian and Kamakura periods:
- Initially, it was used primarily in the imperial court and in the residences of the nobility for ceremonial purposes and as a windbreak.
- During the Heian period, folding screens began to be painted as subjects of Yamato-e, and depictions of this can be found in works such as *The Tale of Genji*.
- Muromachi to Azuchi-Momoyama periods:
- As samurai society developed, increasingly elaborate folding screens began to be produced as symbols of power.
- This period in particular saw the flourishing of “kinpeki shōheki-ga” (gilded screen paintings), which were used to decorate the interiors of castles. Many folding screens were produced during this time, featuring bold motifs—such as dragons, tigers, flowers, birds, and battle scenes—painted in vivid colors on a gold-leaf background. It was an era in which painters from the Kano school and others flourished. Folding screens from this period are highly valued as antiques.
- Edo period:
- As society stabilized and urban culture flourished, the demand for folding screens also diversified.
- Not only daimyo and court nobles, but also wealthy merchants sought out folding screens, and painters from various schools—including the Kano, Tosa, Rin, Maruyama-Shijo schools, and ukiyo-e artists—created screen paintings. Screens featuring more decorative, distinctive, or even folk-inspired subjects also began to appear. Many of the screens found in the antique market date from this period.
- Since the Meiji era:
- As lifestyles became more Westernized, demand for folding screens as everyday items began to decline.
- However, its production continued both as an important form of Japanese painting and as a form of decorative art. Folding screens from earlier periods became objects of collection and preservation as “antiques,” and their value began to be recognized anew.
Sizes and Types of Folding Screens (Uses): Their Diverse Forms and Roles
Folding screens come in a variety of types, depending on their size, shape, and intended use. This knowledge is also useful when selecting antiques.
- Units of size: “sen” or “kyoku”:
- A single panel of a folding screen is called a “fan” or “panel.” A screen with two panels is called a “two-panel screen,” and one with six panels is called a “six-panel screen.” Generally, a “six-panel pair” (a set of two six-panel screens placed side by side) is considered the most prestigious.
- Height: The standard sizes are “Honken” (approx. 170–180 cm) and the slightly shorter “Kyoma” (approx. 150–170 cm), though larger and smaller sizes are also available.
- Small folding screen:
- Pillow screen: A small (approximately 50 cm tall) two-panel folding screen placed at the head of the bed. It was used to block drafts and provide privacy.
- Furosaki-byōbu: A low, two-panel folding screen placed in front of the furo (the hearth where the tea kettle is hung) in a tea room. It serves to highlight the tea utensils and divide the space. It is also popular as an antique.
- Type (Purpose):
- Partitioning and Windbreak: These are the traditional functions of folding screens. They were used to divide large spaces or to block wind and prying eyes.
- Ceremonies and Arrangements:
- Celebratory Occasions: These were used to add a festive touch to events such as weddings (the tradition of taking commemorative photos in front of a gold folding screen is a remnant of this practice) and seasonal decorations. Designs featuring auspicious motifs—such as pine, bamboo, and plum blossoms, or cranes and turtles—were particularly favored.
- Funeral Customs: At funerals, the “pillow screen” placed at the head of the deceased’s bed was often decorated with landscapes or other motifs on a white background (a custom known as the “upside-down screen”).
- The Way of Tea: In addition to the furo-saki folding screen mentioned earlier, large folding screens were sometimes used to separate the guest’s seat from the tea master’s seat.
- Decoration and Appreciation: Folding screens are used to decorate interiors, with the paintings on them serving as works of art in their own right. The themes depicted are diverse, ranging from seasonal flowers and plants to scenes of famous landmarks, narrative paintings, and landscapes. Antique folding screens can truly be described as “portable murals.”
Tips for Choosing Antique Folding Screens
The value of antique folding screens varies greatly depending on their condition and the subject matter depicted. Here are a few points to consider when choosing one.
- Size: Since folding screens tend to be large, first measure the space where you want to display it and look for one that fits.
- Subject Matter and Style: Determine what kind of painting it is and which artistic style it follows. It’s important to consider whether it matches your personal taste and the space where you plan to display it.
- Signature and Seal: Check for a signature or seal indicating the artist. While works by famous artists tend to be more valuable, there are many wonderful pieces by unknown artists as well.
- Condition:
- Painting: Check for peeling paint, stains, dirt, tears, etc.
- Paper and Silk: Deterioration due to age, insect damage, creases, tears, etc.
- Hinges: Do they open and close smoothly? Are there any signs of wear?
- Edge: Check for warping or damage.
- Restoration: Antiques often undergo some form of restoration. Be sure to check whether the restoration work has been done carefully.
Summary: A Journey into the Fascinating World of Folding Screens and Antiques
Folding screens are not merely room dividers or windbreaks; they are artistic antiques that embody the essence of Japanese aesthetics and history. Their grand scale, the beauty of their paintings, and their ability to enhance a space bring a fresh touch of color to our modern lives.
Our online shop offers a wide selection of antique folding screens from various eras and styles. Why not discover a special folding screen that’s just for you—whether as a decorative accent for your room or as part of your collection? We hope this helps you experience the unique charm of folding screens and the rich world of antiques.
